Madison Public Library - Central

Many branches offer baby-specific story times and play dates. These are great for meeting other parents and learning songs. Check schedules for different branches to attend multiple times a week.

“There are library story times specifically for babies.”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 41 upvotes

Libraries are a great free option for evening play when outdoor parks are dark.

“If you need a free place to play with your kids in the evening, the libraries are perfect.”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 11 upvotes

Access historical Wisconsin State Journal archives on microfiche.

“Central Library has archives of Wisconsin State Journal editions going back to the 1800s”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 8 upvotes

Visit the Local History Room for access to old maps, neighborhood walking guides, and a collection of local high school and college yearbooks.

“Our Local History Room at the Central Library is a treasure trove! ... old maps of Madison, local phone directories, high school and college”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 7 upvotes

Libraries offer free storytimes and events. Central and Pinney branches have excellent baby infrastructure like changing stations and quiet nursing areas.

“Many activities across different locations, free, plus the libraries have great "baby infrastructure"”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 5 upvotes

Rent a room at the Central Library and bring in your own catering.

“Room at the central library and cater it.”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 3 upvotes

Check individual library websites for specific storytime hours and toddler programming as they vary by location.

“You have to look up each library individually because they each do their own thing.”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 1 upvotes

Rotate through different branches; they have brought toys back to all locations.

“Madison Public Libraries recently brought toys back in all locations”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 47 upvotes

Check library event calendars for free programming like writing clubs, crafts, and gaming sessions.

“Most libraries will have some type of programming for that age range, just look at the events calendar on their websites.”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 17 upvotes

Check the online calendar at madpl.org/calendar to find free one-on-one computer assistance, chair yoga, and various hobby groups for all ages.

“You can filter our online calendar by age or interest at madpl.org/calendar to see what’s coming up in real time!”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 14 upvotes

Offers free storytimes and play areas. Sequoia Library has a particularly good kids area.

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 11 upvotes

A great, accessible spot for people-watching.

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 7 upvotes

Downtown, Monona, and Pinney branches are highly recommended for kids.

“library (Downtown, Monona, Pinney are some of the best for kids)”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 6 upvotes

The Bubbler offers creative activities; check for satellite events if the main location is too busy.

“The Bubbler at the main public library (and check for satellite activities).”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 6 upvotes

Visit the children's area and the Bubbler space for art activities.

“The downtown library is fun for kids! Both the children's area and the bubbler (if she likes art) might be worth checking out.”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 5 upvotes

There is a men's group that meets at the downtown library on Wednesday evenings.

“I’m part of a men’s group that meets on Wednesday evenings at the library in downtown Madison!”

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 2 upvotes

A reliable, free indoor destination for families to visit after other activities.

Overheard on r/madisonwi · 1 upvotes